Writing a Query Letter

You've written the perfect book - and now you want to find a publisher to promote it. Here are tips on writing a query letter.

A query letter is what sells your idea to the editor. It needs to get the editor to that next step - contacting you for the full book text. It needs to

- be compelling reading
- excite the editor into wanting to know more, arouse interest
- entice them to make the effort to contact you

Remember, the editor doesn't HAVE you read your whole letter. They can read the beginning and chuck it immediately. You need to convince them, every step of the way, that it's worth their time to continue.

The lead must be relevant. Start immediately with the topic at hand, not your own background. Grab them with the first paragraph and then give them a crystal clear story description.

You must include:

* Theme and slant of your book
* Source of any stats or info you list in the query letter
* Your credentials to write this content
* Photos / artwork / etc. you can provide

Your query letter should be:
* a single page only
* single spaced with eye-appealing paragraphs
* ordinary white bond paper, black ink

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